Initiative 2117: Impacts on WTA
A "yes" vote would reduce WTA's funding by $73.6 million over the next fourteen years.
A “yes” vote on Initiative 2117 would repeal the 2021 Climate Commitment Act (CCA). The CCA was enacted to help mitigate climate change in Washington State by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The CCA helps fund “Move Ahead Washington,” a legislative package that allocates $3 billion for public transportation over 16 years. We are now in year two, with 14 years remaining.
How much funding would WTA lose if the Climate Commitment Act is repealed by a “yes” vote on Initiative 2117?
- $1.6 million per year for paratransit, serving elderly riders and riders with disabilities.
- $3.3 million per year in general operating funds.
- $5 million for the expansion of Bellingham Station in downtown Bellingham, planned for 2027-2029.
If the Climate Commitment Act is repealed by a “yes” vote on Initiative 2117, WTA would lose $73.6 million over the next 14 years.
In addition, funding from several state grant programs would likely be reduced or eliminated. These include the Green Transportation Grant and Bus and Bus
Facilities Grants, both of which have funded WTA projects in the past.
How would losing $73.6 million ($4.9 million per year, plus $5 million in 2027-2029) impact WTA?
WTA’s Board of Directors would ultimately decide what programs and services to cut.
Potential impacts include:
- Eliminating Sunday bus service throughout Whatcom County.
- Eliminating bus service to Bellingham’s Waterfront.
- Cancelling a planned expansion of bus service proposed for 2025.
- Postponing efforts to reduce carbon emissions through low- or no-emission vehicles, solar power, and other initiatives.
- Postponing the expansion of Bellingham Station, which would allow for more frequent bus service and the addition of bus charging infrastructure. The expansion is also planned to include mixed income housing, amenities for walking and biking, and other services.
